Missouri River, Montana, United States

5Rick O 5:00 PM Dec 26, 2013

Great fishing, don't expect much solitude
This review is for fishing and floating on the blue-ribbon section of the Missouri downstream of Holter dam. This is a world class fishery for large and energetic rainbow and brown trout. The flow is controlled by three dams upstream so the top two miles are always crystal clear. If the Little Prickley Pear Creek and Dearborn river are in runoff (typically late May and early June), you can expect to see less clarity. In low water years the weeds get downright nasty in August. There are LOTS of people on the 8 miles between Holter Dam and Craig during the summer months. If you want to see fewer people, go downstream from Craig. Access is very easy. There are several FWP fishing access sites along the frontage road where you can hop in and wade fish. Insect hatches are phenomenal during the summer. Keep fly patterns small. You'll do best fishing size 16-18 flies. The river can be difficult as the fish see a lot of pressure, have an abundance of food, and the holding places aren't alway obvious. But when you hook up, you're in for a load of fun. Fish average 16-18". There are several guide services at Wolf Creek and Craig. Most fly shops also offer shuttle service if you have your own boat. If you just want a pleasure float, the canyon stretch from Stickney Creek down to Prewitt offers high cliff walls. Several of the fishing access sites offer camping although most are just open spots at the edge of a parking lot. The Mid Canon and Prewitt sites have spots that have trees and feel more like camping. Spaces are VERY limited and first-come first-serve.

5BobD459 5:00 PM May 17, 2012

Missouri River Boat Tour
Gates of the Mountains boat tour is very informative and fun.